In this episode of Your Investment Partners, hosts Paul and Garrett explore the evolving world of cryptocurrency—what it is, how it works, and where it might fit in an investment portfolio. They discuss the history and mechanics of Bitcoin, the volatility of speculative assets, and the psychological factors that influence investment decisions. The conversation covers strategies like dollar cost averaging, the importance of portfolio sizing, and balancing risk with diversification. Paul and Garrett also share thoughts on who might consider cryptocurrency, how to avoid common pitfalls, and why a measured approach is key to handling this high-risk, high-potential asset class.

Key Points From This Episode

● Defining cryptocurrency and its origins with Bitcoin.

● How cryptocurrencies function as digital tokens outside the traditional financial system.

● Viewing crypto as a speculative asset and its place in a diversified portfolio.

● The impact of early investment experiences on long-term investor behavior.

● Why starting with foundational investments is important before entering high-risk assets.

● Using dollar cost averaging to manage volatility in speculative investments.

● The relationship between concentration, diversification, and certainty in investing.

● Portfolio sizing strategies to manage risk from volatile assets.

● Recognizing the role of human emotion in buying high and selling low.

● Identifying who may be suited for cryptocurrency and the risks of “fear of missing out.”

● The increasing accessibility of crypto through ETFs and financial products.

● Caution against high fees, low transparency, and unsuitable crypto investments.

● Balancing potential growth with the ability to sleep well at night.

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Useful Links

Garrett on LinkedIn

Paul on LinkedIn

Ascend Investment Partners

In this episode of "Your Investment Partners," hosts Garrett and Paul explore the foundational concept of diversification—what it is, why it matters, and how to approach it thoughtfully. They break it down into three main categories: tax diversification, time diversification, and type diversification. The discussion touches on how each helps manage risk, maintain flexibility, and prepare for the unknowns of both markets and life. With practical examples and long-term perspective, they guide listeners toward building a well-rounded, adaptable investment strategy.

Key Points From This Episode

● Why diversification is a long-standing financial principle

● The difference between having multiple advisors and actual diversification

● Overview of tax diversification and the value of varied account types

● Tax flexibility through Roth IRAs, taxable, and tax-deferred accounts

● Understanding time diversification with short-, intermediate-, and long-term needs

● The importance of aligning investment types with time horizons

● Core principles of type diversification—stocks, bonds, real estate, crypto, and more

● Balancing risk by layering speculative and conservative assets

● Signs your diversification is working: peace of mind, flexibility, and stability

● Using diversification to withstand emergencies and market swings

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Useful Links

Garrett on LinkedIn

Paul on LinkedIn

Ascend Investment Partners

In this episode of Your Investment Partners, hosts Garrett and Paul explore security-backed lending—how it works, when it makes sense, and the risks involved. They discuss the strategy often referred to as "buy, borrow, die," highlighting how high-net-worth individuals leverage their investment portfolios for liquidity without triggering taxable events. The conversation covers practical use cases, including funding real estate purchases, managing cash flow for businesses, and handling large expenses efficiently. They also outline the key limitations, such as restrictions on IRA accounts and the risks of margin calls. Whether you’re an investor with a concentrated stock position or simply looking for financial flexibility, this episode provides valuable insights into using investment assets strategically.

Key Points From This Episode

● Common psychological traps investors fall into, including loss aversion and overconfidence

● How anchoring to certain numbers can distort decision-making

● The influence of recency bias and how media reinforces it

● The impact of herd mentality and fear of missing out (FOMO)

● Risks of all-or-nothing decisions in response to market conditions

● Practical strategies to reduce emotional reactions, like using time buffers and bucketing money

● The importance of knowing your top financial priorities

● Role of consistent investing through both good and bad news

● Using long-term planning to counteract short-term market noise

● Encouragement to seek advice and maintain perspective during volatile times

Want to learn more? Contact us here

Useful Links

Garrett on LinkedIn

Paul on LinkedIn

Ascend Investment Partners